The prosecution today (July 17) completed hearing on charge framing in Gatco graft case against BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia and 14 others.

The hearing ended in the court of Judge Mohammad Ali Hossain of Dhaka Special Judge Court-3 on Sunday.

Besides, Khaleda Zia was not present in the court during the hearing. A lawyer appeared on her behalf, also the prosecutor has set the next hearing date of the accused on July 24.

ACC Public Prosecutor Mosharraf Hossain Kajol told the court that the charges brought against Khaleda and other accused of misappropriating around Tk 1,000 crore while dealing with Global Agro Trade (Pvt) Company Ltd (Gatco) were primarily proven.

He also appealed to the court to frame charges against all the accused in the case.

Zaynul Abedin Mesbah, one of her lawyers has confirmed the information.

In the petition, Mesbah said that Masud Ahmed Talukder, one of their senior lawyers, is now out of the country. He will place arguments on behalf of Khaleda against the charges on the next scheduled date. As such, adjournment is needed, the lawyer added.

On September 2, 2007, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) filed the case with Tejgaon Police Station against Khaleda and several others on charges of misappropriating around Tk 1,000 crore while dealing with Global Agro Trade (Pvt) Company Ltd (Gatco).

Thirty-three more cases, including Niko and Barapukuria coalmine graft cases, against Khaleda are now pending with different courts across the country.

BDST: 1448 HRS, JULY 17, 2022
MSK